Elegance is a stunning luxury barge, with a sophisticated interior inspired by the Orient-Express. Matthia Gilles, the owner of the beautiful “Esperance“, has used his long-time passion for the glamourous train travel of the past as his inspiration for the stunning decoration; French craftsman René Lalique’s famous 1928 glass panels, rich woods and marquetry, beautiful Art deco wallpapers and many more handpicked items. With its huge picture windows, Elegance is a gem of coziness and brightness. The ceiling height is an exceptional at 218 cm!
As of 2026, Elegance cruises on the on the Canal de Garonne in Gascony, one of the most beautiful and unspoiled regions in France. For generations, Gascony’s enduring allure has attracted Francophiles with refined tastes as well as passionate culinary enthusiasts drawn to its flavourful cuisine. Remarkably preserved from overdevelopment, this captivating part of France reveals shaded waterways, rolling rural landscapes, and vibrant village life.
Elegance is available for charter only, for a maximum of 6 people in 3 spacious suites. The three magnificently decorates suites – London, Paris and Venice – all have their own chic decor and atmosphere.
Lots of comfortable outdoor seating on the specious and sun-filled deck (which also boasts a large jacuzzi) lends itself to al fresco dining and relaxing hours watching the stunning countryside of the Garonne float by. Matthias’s barges are known for their wonderful cuisine which highlights the flavours of southern France; delectable seafood and meats, locally-grown crisp fresh vegetables and salads, accompanied by delicious local wines – along with stunning table settings that further delight the senses!
Excellent service provided by your attentive and warm crew, and fascinating excursions that include charming local villages, ancient abbeys, truffle and wine tastings and fabulous local artisan shops complete the picture of an unforgettable week on board one of the most exclusive barges in France!
Features At-A-Glance
6 GUESTS
EXQUISITELY DECORATED LARGE CABINS WITH EN-SUITE BATHROOMS
BEAUTIFULLY APPOINTED SALON AND DINING AREA WITH LUXURY APPOINTMENTS
SPACIOUS SUNDECK WITH JACUZZI AND SHADE AWNING
3 CREW
30.5 METRES LONG
6 TOURING BIKES
AIR CONDITIONED AND HEATED THROUGHOUT
SATELLITE TV WITH DVD PLAYER
HI-FI SYSTEM WITH CD PLAYER
WIFI
BOARD GAMES
LIBRARY
AIR CONDITIONED MINIBUS FOR EXCURSIONS
Sunday - Montauban
In the afternoon, you will be met at the designated meeting point by a member of the Élégance crew and chauffeured to the barge, moored near Montauban.
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with a glass of chilled champagne and soft drinks followed by a gracious introduction to the crew. Take time to wander through the barge, admiring the exquisite accommodation and carefully curated artwork that define life on board Élégance.
As you settle into the comfort of your private cabin, the hostess will be attentively preparing an elegantly dressed table for your first gourmet dining experience on board.
Monday - Montauban to Lacourt Saint Pierre
Back on the barge for lunch before Élégance starts to drift gently along the peaceful Canal de Montech. The hush of the water, and the shade of overhanging trees set the pace for leisurely walks or cycling between nearby villages, their church bells and shuttered houses nestled amid the deep greens of the Forest of Agre.
You can enjoy a moment of relaxation in the large outdoor jacuzzi while a gourmet evening meal is being prepared by your private chef.
Tuesday - Lacourt Saint Pierre to Escatalens
This afternoon after your lunch we are going to cruise on a different canal ; relax on board as the barge glides onto the Canal de Garonne. En route, admire the famous and vividly coloured Pente d’Eau in Montech, a remarkable inclined water slope and a striking feature of canal engineering.
As evening approaches, arrive at your peaceful night mooring, where drinks and an elegant dinner are served on board, bringing the day to a graceful end.
Wednesday - Escatalens to Castelsarrasin
Continue with a visit to a working cheese producer, discovering the craft and tradition behind the region’s farmhouse cheeses, followed, naturally, by generous tastings.
After lunch an afternoon cruise with inviting relaxed moments on deck as the gentle rhythm of the water carries you toward Castelsarrasin, your peaceful home port for the night. On arrival, enjoy a leisurely stroll across the charming footbridge designed by Gustave Eiffel, a fittingly elegant close to the day before your onboard dinner.
Thursday - Castelsarrasin to Moissac
During the cruise enjoy your lunch and glide across the Tarn River via the impressive 1,000-foot-long aqueduct, suspended high above the water, before gently descending through a series of locks that lead directly into the heart of Moissac.
Accompanied by your private guide, marvel at centuries-old stonework as you explore the town and the magnificent Abbaye Saint-Pierre, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure renowned for its exquisite Romanesque cloister.
Weather permitting, the evening unfolds at a romantic mooring on the majestic Tarn River. Relax on deck with an Armagnac spritz as the light softens over the water, before enjoying a wonderful meal in one of our favourite restaurants.
Friday - Moissac to Valence d’Agen
After lunch, choose between two exceptional excursions. Visit the enchanting Latour-Marliac Water Lily Gardens, where thousands of blooms drift across mirror-like ponds. These historic gardens once supplied Claude Monet with the lilies that inspired his most celebrated paintings.
Alternatively, discover the elegant town of Agen, with its handsome cathedral and inviting shopping streets, followed by a scenic drive to Château Lamothe-Bardigues for a private visit graciously hosted by the Countess herself.
Return to Élégance to savour the Captain’s Farewell Dinner, an evening of refined dining and warm reflection as you reminisce about the landscapes, towns, and cuisine that have defined your journey through this authentic and historic region.
Saturday
2026 Prices
Private Cruise Charter 6 Guests
Private Cruise Charter 5 guests
Private Cruise Charter 4 Guests
Elegance departs every Sunday throughout the season which starts April 5th, 2026 and the final cruise begins October 25th, 2026. Cruises are 6 nights/7 days.
Prices are in US dollars and we convert to Australian dollars at current exchange rates on the day of payment of deposit/full payment.
